Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri April 20 – April 26, 2026

It’s a big week for events around Franklin County, there’s community wide yard sales, flea market, and a vintage pop up market, plus farmers markets in Union and Pacific. The first Sunset on the Riverfront of the season happens this Thursday in Washington, plus annual events are happening this weekend like the WashMo BBQ & Bluesfest, and the P-Town Pub Crawl in Pacific.

There’s also line dancing, black light bingo, fundraising events, and the Franklin County Humane Society’s Strut Your Mutt event featuring a dog parade, contests, and more. Find out all the information about the events happening in Franklin County and nearby communities this week below.

Just a heads up! April is prime spring shower weather in Missouri, so it might be a good idea to double check with event venues before heading out just in case an event gets canceled or rescheduled due to weather!

Did I miss an event? Tag me on Facebook or Instagram and I can share the event in my stories.

Tuesday, April 21
The Washington Library is hosting a Mini Introduction to the Akashic Records event at 6 p.m. This 45-minute mini class starts with a brief overview of the Akashic Records, what they are, how they work, and how they can be used for soul-level insight, clarity, and self-understanding.
Learn more.

Wednesday, April 22
Celebrate National Library Week with a book-related craft event at the Washington Public Library. The event is from 4-5 p.m.
Find out more.

Thursday, April 23
The Power of the Purse fundraising event is a way to have a fun night out that raises funds for Franklin County United Way.
Get tickets.

Thursday, April 23
Kick up your heels with line dance lessons with instructor Jessica Blankis at Tri-County Community Senior Center in Pacific. It’s free, but donations are graciously accepted.
Get details.

Thursday, April 23
The first Sunset on the Riverfront event is happening in downtown Washington from 5-8 p.m. Get ready for an evening of fun, food, drinks, and music. Please note that the April Sunset on the Riverfront event is taking place at the Farmers Market due to construction happening at the riverfront park.
Find out more.

Friday, April 24 – Sunday, April 26
Get ready for a weekend full of delicious barbecue and toe-tapping music. The annual WashMo BBQ & Bluesfest is happening from Friday evening through Sunday afternoon.
Find pricing and more info.

Friday, April 24
Grace United Methodist Church in Sullivan is having its annual barbecue. The menu will include a choice of brats or pork steaks, with sides including potato salad, baked beans, cole slaw, and a dessert. The event runs from 11 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. and drive-through or all you can eat dine-in options are available.
Learn more.

Friday, April 24
The Annual David Arand Memorial Golf Tournament is happening at 1 p.m. at Birch Creek Golf Club in Union. The final day for signing up for the event is Thursday, April 23.
Get more info.

Friday, April 24
The first Union farmers market of the year starts at 4 p.m. The Market off Main is happening at the intersection of Oak & Main Street, adjacent to Hansen Park. Expect to find goods from local vendors, crafters, and growers, along with delicious eats from regional food trucks.
Get all the info on Facebook.

Friday, April 24
Head to The Office Bar & Grill in Washington to take part in line dancing lessons by Glittering Grapevine beginning at 7 p.m.
Learn more.

Advertisement – Need more space in your current home? Whether you’ve been dreaming about upgrading your kitchen, adding another bathroom or bedroom, a new deck or an outdoor space, Freelance Services can help with that! Reach out today to talk about your project!

Saturday, April 25 & Sunday, April 26
A two-day treasure hunt is happening at Terror on Route 66. Find goods from a variety of vendors at this spring flea market.
Find out more.

Saturday, April 25
Do you love vintage items like books, antiques, and collectibles? Then you’ll want to drop by the American Legion in Union for the Vintage Pop Up Market held from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Be sure to grab a bite of something yummy at one of the on-site food trucks.
Get more details.

Saturday, April 25
The 4th Annual P-Town Pub Crawl kicks off at 11 a.m. The crawl begins and ends at the same location and attendees will be shuttled around to various watering holes in Pacific including Brown Jerry’s BBQ, Pacific Brewhaus, Pacific Eagles, and American Legion, and more. Cost is $35 per person.
Find tickets.

Saturday, April 25
St. Bridget Kildare Catholic School is hosting a mother/daughter dance with an 80s theme. The event is from 6-8 p.m. and cost is $20 per person.
Find out more.

Saturday, April 25
Get ready for an evening of glow in the dark music themed bingo for a worthy cause. The St. Clair Elks Lodge is hosting the event, with proceeds from the bingo night benefiting St. Clair High School Baseball. Doors open at 5 p.m., with bingo beginning at 6 p.m. and tickets are $30 in advance, $40 at the door, and $240 for a table of 8.
Get more details.

Saturday, April 25
The Washington Fairgrounds Pavilion is the site of the Franklin County Humane Society’s Strut Your Mutt event, happening from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. This fun-filled afternoon will be feature contests, activities, and dog demonstrations. Enjoy a short dog parade around the park, watch exciting demos, browse vendor booths featuring pet-related items, and take part in contests and other activities throughout the event.
Learn more.

Saturday, April 25
Frisco Farmhouse in Pacific is hosting a farmers market that will feature meat, sourdough, eggs, produce, and more.
Get more info.

Saturday, April 25
Eagle Ridge Estates is hosting a community-wide yard sale. The sales kick off at 7 a.m. and go until 1 p.m.
Find out more.

Sunday, April 26
The Club House Play Cafe in Sullivan is having a closet clean out. Stop by the establishment from 7 a.m. – 12 p.m. for an indoor yard sale and play day.
Get the details.

Sunday, April 26
The St. Clair VFW will have a black light bingo event beginning at 2 p.m.
Find out more.

Road Trippin’

Take a little road trip to some of these events happening within a short drive of Franklin County.

Friday, April 24
Brookdale Farms in Eureka is hosting a laid-back spring night of instructor-led line dancing, music, and good company.
Get more info.

Saturday, April 25
Head to Rolla’s historic downtown for the 5th Annual Spring Craft Festival. Discover original and handmade creations such as jewelry, furniture, clothing, home accessories, paintings and prints, books, wooden crafts, toys and much more.
Find out more.

Saturday, April 25
Join representatives from Missouri State Parks and Edward Jones in celebrating Founders Day on the Katy Trail at the Treloar Trailhead. Enjoy live music, visit with team members from Missouri State Parks and Edward Jones, mulch trees in the Burkhardt Grove, take a tram ride to Peers, or assist in a honeysuckle hack to remove invasive species along the trail.
Get more info.

Saturday, April 25
Ownesville is hosting its first ever strongman games event called O-Town Showdown. This free event will feature tremendous displays of strength like pressing logs and car lifting. The fun kicks off at 9 a.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, April 25 & Sunday, April 26
Heartland Farms in Bourbon is having Baby Animal Days at the farm. This family-friendly outdoor event will feature 4H groups showing off their baby animals. The animals will vary by day, but should include chicks, goats, bunnies, bottle calf, and ponies. Other attractions will be open as well as a concession stand.
Find out more.

Have a public event coming up? Submit your event details like time, location, and cost to attend. Be sure to include your website and social media details so I can help spread the word about your event!

Posted in Events

What’s Happening in East Central Missouri April 13 – April 19, 2026

Get ready Franklin County, we’re in for a week of exciting spring events and entertaining fundraisers! This week, you can spend an afternoon crafting at a local library, experience a “smart zoo,” take in live music, take part in DIY group classes like crafting nights or cookie decorating classes, and a whole lot more.

Looking ahead to the weekend, there’s community fundraisers, the 2026 Missouri Book Festival, a craft fair, a city wide yard sale, a roaring 20s themed pub crawl, plus there’s plenty of events happening within a short drive of Franklin County like wine tastings, a grandparents brunch, and a star-gazing event.

Just a heads up! April is prime spring shower weather in Missouri, so it might be a good idea to double check with event venues before heading out just in case an event gets canceled or rescheduled due to weather!

Did I miss an event? Tag me on Facebook or Instagram and I can share the event in my stories.

Tuesday, April 14
The monthly Crafting and Creativity event at the Washington Public Library is all about decorating the community read book “Speak to Me of Home.” Don’t have a copy of that book? Feel free to bring your favorite book to decorate at this free event.
Learn more.

Tuesday, April 14
Silver Edge Self-Defense at American Street Edge – St. Clair. This 55+ self-defense and mobility class is on a limited trial of two classes to gauge interest. Attend on Tuesday for the second of the two trial classes to learn practical self-defense, mobility, balance, fall prevention, and building real confidence in a safe, controlled environment. These classes are designed for the 55+ age group and are effective without being overly intense. The 30 minute class starts at 2:30 p.m. and attendees can come for free.
Get more info on Facebook.

Wednesday, April 15
Have a zoo experience unlike any other at Lowe’s Parking Lot in Washington when Wild Adventures: A Smart Zoo Experience comes to Washington. The event is from 2-7 p.m. and features hyper-realistic and fully animatronic animals, including lions, tigers, elephants, pandas, monkeys, a smoke breathing 40-foot King Cobra, brand new dinosaurs, and more.
Find out more.

Thursday, April 16
Music on Main continues at the intersection of Oak & Main in downtown Union. Enjoy live music performed by Dave Alans, with food and refreshments available for purchase by Elmer’s Tavern and Boxcar Express Ice Cream.
Get more info.

Thursday, April 16
It’s the one month anniversary of American Street Edge’s grand opening. To celebrate, this Thursday only, both kids and adult classes are completely FREE! School opens at 3:30 p.m., kids class at 4:30 p.m. (ages 6 to 12) and the adult class is at 6 p.m. (ages 13 and above). As part of the celebration, one lucky new student (kid or adult) who attends that day will be randomly selected to receive a special gift from American Street Edge!
Learn more.

Thursday, April 16
Experience the flavors of Puerto Rico at the Washington Public Library’s Taste of Puerto Rico event with food made by Jess from Little Lost Kitchen! Discover traditional dishes, ingredients, and cooking techniques while enjoying a delicious, hands-on culinary experience.
Must register to attend.

Thursday, April 16
Grab your besties and head to The Painted Home in downtown Washington for Girlfriend Craft Night. This event will feature a Clipboard Class where attendees will design their own custom clipboard using IOD transfers or paint inlays. In addition to the crafts, expect music, chatting, and lots of fun and creativity. Attendees can BYOB and snacks.
Purchase tickets.

Friday, April 17
Help raise funds for Labaddie Elementary School at the Annual Dinner Auction Fundraiser, held at The Historic John B. Busch Brewery Event Center in Washington.
Get more info.

Advertisement – Need more space in your current home? Whether you’ve been dreaming about upgrading your kitchen, adding another bathroom or bedroom, a new deck or an outdoor space, Freelance Services can help with that! Reach out today to talk about your project!

Friday, April 17
DeAnn’s Dazzling Designs on Main Street in St. Clair is hosting a beginner cookie decorating class for all ages. The paid non-refundable class fee of $40 will hold your spot and includes a 6 cookie decorating kit, with everything you need to decorate your cookies and a box to take them home in.
Sign up.

Saturday, April 18
The 2026 Missouri Book Festival is happening from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Washington Public Library. Discover new authors and mingle with other book lovers at this annual event.
Learn more.

Saturday, April 18
Golf enthusiasts won’t want to miss the First Annual Jeffrey White Memorial Foundation Golf Tournament at Meramec Lakes Golf Course in St. Clair. Cost is $100 per person/$350 team of 4. Registration begins at 9:30 a.m. and the Shotgun Scramble 11 a.m. Dinner, beer, water and soda provided.
Find out more.

Saturday, April 18
Step back into the Roaring Twenties for a 1920s inspired pub crawl in Union filled with speakeasy vibes, classic cocktails, and a little Prohibition era mischief. Dress to the nines or not, sip your way through participating stops, and enjoy a night of jazz age energy and surprises because the best speakeasies never give away all their secrets.
Get tickets and learn more.

Saturday, April 18
Create your own Tea Garden using a variety of herbs at this workshop held at Hoffmann Hillermann Nursery. You will learn how to care for and harvest fresh ingredients from this garden to make your own medicinal tea.
Save your spot.

Saturday, April 18
The St. Clair Saddle Club is having a Family Fun Day featuring free hot dogs, games, and activities for all ages.
Find out more.

Saturday, April 18
The Union Moose Lodge is hosting a Craft Fair that is open to the public. Shop from area vendors from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, April 18
Attend the city wide yard sale in New Haven, which is happening from 7 a.m. – 3 p.m. There’s also a pop-up BBQ at Save-a-Lot, so get your fix after you’ve hit some of the yard sales.
Get more info.

Saturday, April 18
The Scenic Regional Library St. Clair branch is hosting a tea and paper doll event from 1-2 p.m. Enjoy a spot of tea and cut out paper dolls at this free event for kids.
Learn more.

Road Trippin’

Take a little road trip to some of these events happening within a short drive of Franklin County.

Tuesday, April 14
Countryside Farm & Market in Cuba is having a Plant & Sip event where attendees will make a hanging basket. The event begins at 6 p.m. and attendees will have the opportunity to make their own hanging basket arrangement.
Learn more.

Saturday, April 18 & Sunday, April 19
It’s the Spring Wine Tasting Event, happening at participating wineries in the St. James area. Enjoy wine tastings at establishments including St. James Winery, Prairie Barn Winery, Spencer Manor Winery, Peaceful Bend, and Eagles Landing.
Get more info.

Saturday, April 18
The Legends subdivision in Eureka is having a community spring garage sale event. The sale is from 7 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Find out more.

Saturday, April 18
The first Starry Sky Night of the season is happening at Onondaga Cave State Park in Leasburg. Join astronomy enthusiast Joe Parish in the visitor center parking lot to view the cosmos with a high-powered telescope.
Get more info.

Saturday, April 18
Country Cousins Antique Mall in Leasburg is having an outdoor flea market beginning at 8 a.m.
Learn more.

Saturday, April 18
Attend the Ladies Night Out Shop Hop in historic Rosebud, happening from 4-9 p.m. Grab your girlfriends and make plans for a fun night out of shopping, sips, and good times.
Get more details.

Sunday, April 19
Head to Brookdale Farms in Eureka for Grandparents Garden Brunch. Attendees of this ticketed event will enjoy a brunch buffet, crafts, and games, with the option to take carriage rides for an additional fee.
Find out more.

Sunday, April 19
Spend a spring afternoon along Historic Route 66 with a guided wine and food experience in the heart of the Ozark Highlands with a 5-course wine pairing dinner.
Get tickets.

Have a public event coming up? Submit your event details like time, location, and cost to attend. Be sure to include your website and social media details so I can help spread the word about your event!

Posted in News and Features

Where to Find Holiday Light Displays

There’s something about glowing light displays that make this time of year feel extra special. If you’re looking for places to view lights, by either driving through the lights or exploring them on foot, take a look at the list below

St. Clair

Head to Lost Hill Lake Weddings & Events in St. Clair to walk through their annual Grove of Lights holiday light experience. View thousands of dazzling lights, enjoy complimentary hot cocoa and s’mores, get photos with Santa, free face painting for kids, and much more.
Purchase tickets.

Union

ReDicsover Union Inc. has released a Holiday Lights Map on its website. The map shows you how to take a self-guided tour of the lights located throughout town.

Eureka

Santa’s Magical Kingdom is a drive-thru light display containing millions of lights that make up a variety of animated scenes. Admission is paid by the carload.
Find out more.

Central Avenue in Eureka is lit up with beautiful holiday displays.
See more.

Washington

Take a drive down East Fifth Street to take in the lights of numerous businesses as well as residences who’ve decked the halls for Christmas. There’s also some beautiful light displays on the historic homes located along Cedar Street (near Tilted Skillet), as well as in the neighborhood near Total Access Urgent Care (Madison Avenue and 47).

Krakow

Facebook users report that a private home located at 5333 Cedar Lane in Krakow features a lighted display set to music.

Rolla

Hamilton Holiday Orchard in Rolla will glow with lighted displays every Friday and Saturday evening this holiday season.
Learn pricing and more info.

Christmas in the Park is happening at Rolla Lions Park from Dec. 11-23 and again from Dec. 26-27. This drive-through light display features displays of several businesses and organizations in Phelps County as well as Santa, Mrs. Claus, Frosty, and more.
Get more information.

St. Louis and St. Charles Counties

For those up for a road trip, Facebook users report that there are numerous neighborhoods, parks, and other organizations featuring holiday light displays, including Teddy Bear Christmas Land, near Grant’s Farm.

Walk through lights at Grant’s Farm features carousel rides, up close encounters with animals, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, as well as millions of dazzling light displays.
Learn more and get tickets.

Garden Glow is a walk-through lighted display at the Missouri Botanical Garden.
Find out more.

Wild Lights is a light display at the St. Louis Zoo.
Get more info.